Hair Systems: The Ultimate Guide

Hair systems are a non-surgical solution for people experiencing hair loss or thinning. Whether you’re looking to cover up bald spots, add volume to thinning hair, or simply want to change your look without committing to a permanent solution, hair systems can offer a versatile, temporary option.

Women’s and men’s hair system options are available, although there are more clinics offering specialised treatment for men due to their increased likelihood of having thinning hair that a system could help.

They aren’t a long-term solution, and so many people still prefer to go down the route of something more permanent such as a hair transplant. However they are absolutely worth considering if you are losing hair, even if you eventually decide they aren’t the right option for you.

This guide will cover everything you need to know about hair systems, including how they work, why some people choose them over a hair transplant, and the benefits of opting for a transplant instead.

We’ll also go hair system maintenance, and the costs involved in getting a good quality system.

What is a Hair System?

Hair replacement systems are essentially a custom-made hairpiece that’s designed to blend seamlessly with your natural hair.

It’s typically made from real human hair or synthetic fibres and can be tailored to match your hair colour, texture, and length. Hair systems are applied to areas of the scalp where hair is thinning or completely missing, offering an instant solution to hair loss.

There are several types of hair systems available, including:

• Wigs: Full-coverage hair replacement systems that cover the entire scalp. Wigs are popular for complete hair loss or for people who want to drastically change their hairstyle. If you were buying a sophisticated wig from a specialist hair clinic, you’d be getting one shaped to your head that could look completely natural.
• Toupees: Smaller than wigs, toupees typically cover just the top or crown of the head and are often worn by men with male-pattern baldness. They’re an affordable option for non surgical hair replacement, although not as permanent.
• Hairpieces or Clips: These can be used to add volume or length to thinning or fine hair. They’re generally clip-in systems that don’t require permanent attachment, and good ones are designed to blend perfectly with the hair you do have.
• Custom Hair Units: These are individually tailored to match the user’s hair and scalp, providing a more natural, bespoke solution. They can be glued, taped, or clipped onto the scalp and are generally the highest quality hair replacement systems you can get.

 How Do Hair Systems Work?

Hair systems work by adhering to your scalp or natural hair in some way. There are a few common methods of attachment:

• Adhesive Tape or Glue: The system is attached directly to the scalp or existing hair using a special medical-grade adhesive. This is a popular choice for people who want their hair system to stay in place for a longer period (usually a few weeks).
• Clip-ins: These are simple to use and can be clipped into your natural hair. They’re a good option for people looking for a quick, temporary solution.
• Sewn-in: For people with longer hair, a hair system can be sewn into natural hair using braids or other techniques, making it more secure.
• Integrated Systems: For the custom-made pieces designed to act as undetectable hair systems, these are integrated into the user’s existing hair using a special technique, giving the appearance of natural hair growth.

The main idea behind hair systems is to create a seamless blend between the system and your natural hair, making it difficult to distinguish between the two.

They look natural, can hide a receding hairline or thinning hair, and boost your self confidence.

Why Choose a Hair System Instead of a Hair Transplant?

Hair systems offer several advantages over a hair transplant, particularly for those who aren’t ready to commit to a surgical procedure or for people who have certain restrictions. Here are some of the key reasons people may opt for hair systems over transplants:

Non-Surgical

The most obvious benefit of a hair system is that it doesn’t require surgery. For those who are wary of medical procedures or don’t have the time for recovery, a hair system is an appealing choice.

A lot of people are put off by the idea of going through with surgical treatment, worrying about pain or discomfort. Despite hair transplants being relatively straightforward, it can still be tough for some people to accept this, and they prefer the lighter touch of getting a new hair system instead.

Instant Results

Unlike a hair transplant, which takes several months to show full results, a hair system gives immediate coverage and fuller hair. Even custom hair replacement systems that must be made to fit you exactly, you’re looking more at a few weeks at most before it is ready, rather than the long-term wait for a hair transplant to really show through.

That’s why a lot of people who suffer from rapid hair loss but have an important event coming up, such as their wedding, opt to get a hair replacement system instead of a hair transplant, even if it is only a stop-gap measure.

Less Expensive

Hair systems are generally more affordable than hair transplants, especially in the short term. There are a variety of options available at different price points, making them accessible to more people.

However, even a good quality hair system won’t last for more than a few months, and so even with more affordable prices, you need to consider the long-term costs of replacing your hair piece compared to a hair transplant.

No Recovery Time

With hair systems, there’s no lengthy recovery period. You can wear them immediately and continue with your daily activities without worrying about post-surgery care. Compare that to a hair transplant, where you are looking at a couple of weeks (at least) of careful sleeping and a range of steps you need to follow, and men’s hair system options can be a lot more appealing.

Flexibility

If you want to change your look, hair systems offer complete flexibility. Whether you’re looking for a different colour, length, or texture, you can easily switch up your appearance without waiting for new hair to grow. A hair transplant isn’t really about changing your hair style beyond replacing what was already there – you can, of course, get a new cut but you’ll need to wait the full 12-18 months for your full head of hair to regrow.

Why a Hair Transplant Might Be a Better Option

While hair systems are a great solution for many, there are also several reasons why you might prefer a hair transplant over using a system long-term:

Permanent Solution

A hair transplant provides permanent results. The hair follicles transplanted to thinning or balding areas will continue to grow for a lifetime, unlike a non surgical hair replacement that needs to be replaced regularly. As a guideline, most hair replacement systems are expected to last for around 6 months before they’ll need replacing.

Natural Look

While hair systems are designed to look as natural as possible, they can sometimes appear artificial, especially when they start to wear out or need adjustment. A transplant, on the other hand, looks completely natural because it involves transplanting your own hair.

No Maintenance

Hair systems require ongoing maintenance, such as regular cleaning, adjustments, and replacement, while a hair transplant doesn’t require daily upkeep once the recovery period is over.

No Risk of Discomfort

Some users report discomfort with the adhesives or clips used for hair systems. A hair transplant doesn’t involve any of these issues once fully healed – any discomfort comes at the surgery and immediate recover stage, and is then over.

Confidence Boost

For many, the permanence of a hair transplant brings a significant confidence boost, as they no longer need to worry about their hair looking unnatural or dealing with daily adjustments.

Hair System Care Guide

To get the best results and extend the life of your hair system, proper care is essential. There are a number of things you need to be aware of, because it’s not just as simple as buying a hair replacement and then wearing it.

1. Cleaning: Whether it’s a wig, toupee, or clip-in, it’s crucial to clean your hair system regularly. Use mild, non-abrasive shampoos and conditioners, and avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the hair fibres. A good clinic will often provide suitable products for you to use.
2. Detangling: If your hair system is made from real hair, treat it like natural hair. Gently detangle it with a wide-toothed comb to avoid breakage. Always start from the ends and work your way up.
3. Storage: When you’re not wearing your hair system, store it properly to avoid tangling or damage. Use a wig stand or a breathable storage bag to keep it in good condition.
4. Avoid Excessive Heat: If you’re wearing a hair system made from real hair, avoid using excessive heat styling tools unless it’s specified as safe. Synthetic fibres, in particular, are more susceptible to heat damage.
5. Adhesive Maintenance: If your system is glued or taped to your scalp, clean the areas where the adhesive attaches regularly to avoid build-up and irritation. Ensure you replace the adhesive every few weeks to maintain a secure fit.
6. Professional Help: For custom systems, it’s a good idea to visit a specialist for periodic adjustments or re-fitting. They can ensure your system fits well and is properly maintained. You’ll typically be asked to visit every 3-6 weeks or so.

Hair System Costs

The cost of a hair system varies greatly depending on the type, quality of materials, and how custom-made it is. Here’s a breakdown of typical costs in the UK:

• Synthetic Wigs/Toupees: £50 – £300. These are generally more affordable, but the quality and durability may not be as high.
• Human Hair Wigs/Toupees: £300 – £2,000. These offer a more natural look and feel, and tend to last longer, but are significantly more expensive.
• Custom Hair Units: £500 – £3,000. These are tailor-made to suit your hair and scalp, offering the most natural appearance and comfort, but they’re at the higher end of the price scale.
• Maintenance Costs: Around £50 – £200 per month for regular cleaning, adjustments, and adhesive replacements.

Keep in mind that hair systems are a recurring cost since they need to be replaced or maintained regularly. Over time, the cumulative cost of using a hair system can exceed the cost of a hair transplant, which is a one-time expense.

If you use a professional clinic, you’ll typically visit for a consultation to discuss your options, before you’ll usually spend around £600-1,000 on your hair replacement, whatever option you end up getting. You’ll visit their salon to get the perfect fit, and then spend every few weeks having it cared for, as well as making sure the skin on your scalp is looked after too.

Many clinics build up clients for life due to the fantastic service they offer – it’s not just turning up for a hair cut to keep your real hair in check alongside your system, but it’ll ensure your system and scalp are really well cared for.

Some clinics you may wish to consider:

• King of Kwiffs – Manchester, Essex, Liverpool, Leeds
• Hair Systems Manchester
• Aderans – London, Birmingham, Hove, Liverpool, Manchester, Nottingham, Edinburgh

Conclusion

Hair systems offer an excellent, non-surgical option for those looking for a quick fix to hair loss. Many men find that they’re a great option for tackling thinning hair, helping them look younger and get a self confidence boost.

They’re affordable, versatile, and can be customised to fit a variety of needs. However, if you’re looking for a permanent, low-maintenance solution, a hair transplant might be a better long-term option.

Ultimately, the choice between a hair system and a hair transplant depends on your goals, lifestyle, and budget. Both options have their pros and cons, but with the right care, either can help restore your confidence and give you the look you want.